Johannesburg – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, has launched an investigation into the circumstances under which 17 South African men reportedly ended up trapped in the Ukraine–Russia conflict zone.
This comes after two enquiries were opened by members of the Zuma family.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the first enquiry was filed at the Sandton Police Station by Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, while a second was registered on Sunday, 24 November 2025, by Duduzile Zuma.
In a statement, the DPCI confirmed it is examining whether any form of criminality may have contributed to the men’s movement to the conflict region.
“Both matters are being investigated jointly to determine whether any criminality, including possible human trafficking, illegal recruitment, exploitation, or fraud, may have contributed to the movement of these individuals to the conflict zone,” the directorate said.
The Hawks said the exact charges would only be confirmed once all evidence had been assessed.
“The exact charges will be confirmed upon completion of the investigation and assessment of all evidence,” the statement noted.
The DPCI added that several departments and foreign authorities are now involved in the probe.
“The DPCI is working in close collaboration with various government departments and relevant foreign authorities to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach,” it said.
This cooperation, the unit added, allows the investigation to proceed within the legal mandates of all stakeholders, especially on issues of international relations, identity verification, and foreign law-enforcement engagement.
Families of the trapped men are receiving ongoing updates.
“The DPCI remains in contact with the complainants and family members as part of the investigative process, and updates will be provided where appropriate without compromising the integrity of the investigation,” the Hawks said.
Once the investigation is finalised, the docket will be handed to prosecutors.
“Upon finalisation of the investigation and the gathering of all relevant evidence, the docket will be submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision,” the statement read.
The Hawks stressed that, for now, they will not release further information publicly.
“To safeguard the integrity of this investigation, no further details will be disclosed in the public domain at this stage.”
They assured the public that the matter is being prioritised.
“The DPCI assures the public that this matter is receiving priority attention, and all necessary steps are being taken to establish the facts and ensure accountability where required.”
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
